Dirty Linen - A Food Podcast with Dani Valent

Gilbert Family Wines have a long history of agriculture and winemaking within Australia. A father and son story of balancing tradition with natural progression and respect to site and season. https://www.gilbertfamilywines.com.au Over a Glass is a drinks podcast with Shanteh Wale. Exploring the personalities, stories & landscape of the wine and drinks business. Follow Over a Glass https://www.instagram.com/overtheglasspod Host Shanteh Wale https://www.instagram.com/shantehwale/?hl=en Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Executive Producer Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

With reopening feeling more and more secure in Melbourne and Sydney, it's a good opportunity to have a state of the industry check-in with Wes Lambert, head of the Restaurant & Catering Industry Association. What are the big issues and what are the solutions? We talk vaccination, restrictions, lobbying, immigration and staffing, staffing, staffing. https://www.rca.asn.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Paul Righetti is a founder and owner of Honest Eggs, a central Victorian regenerative farm where they take pride in doing things differently. Paul grazes cattle, sheep and chickens, moving them through pastures in a nurturing cycle that works well for the produce and the land. Honest Eggs goes way beyond "free range" in terms of animal welfare, environmental impact and - crucially - flavour, and he reckons farming like this is good for the soul. https://honesteggsco.com.au Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Melbourne prides itself on being an events capital but that hasn't exactly been the case for the past 20 months. We check in with Hatem Saleh, CEO of Atlantic Group, which had already been thrown into turmoil even before the pandemic. How does a leader deal with crisis? Why is he in the industry anyway? And what are the positives Hatem is taking forward into his reshaped hospitality and events business? https://atlanticgroup.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

It's been a week since Melbourne reopened and Victoria is set for further changes this weekend, as the state hits 80% 16+ vaccination. What has the last week been like and what can we expect for the next stage of easing? Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

We head to Adelaide to talk to American-born chef Justin James (ex-Vue de monde). Justin's restaurant in the Adelaide Botanic Garden uses foraged produce to create tasting menus that take diners on a journey. We talk about the hot topic of staffing and Justin shares his innovative approach to melding and overlapping the many roles that combine to make a restaurant work. https://www.instagram.com/chefjustinjames/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

It's episode 300! We catch up with erudite, opinionated pastry chef Will Goldfarb, who has recently been named World's Best Pastry Chef by the World's 50 Best awards. Will runs the incredible Room 4 Dessert in Bali which has navigated the pandemic with energy and optimism. We chat creativity, humility, art and dessert: how far can you push it? https://www.instagram.com/willtgoldfarb/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Great cheese takes time, takes patience and takes a lot of care. For Nicole Gilliver (Grandvewe) it all starts with a great life for the sheep. Everything Nicole and her family do is founded on respect for their sheep, respect for the environment and a love of exceptional cheese. https://grandvewe.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Rhianwen Seiter is flustered! The owner of Bendigo's Ms Batterhams is excited about Victoria rejoining as one but she's also discombobulated by a rolling staffing crisis. Her situation is further exacerbated by a number of her team - including her head chef - who've had to isolate after visiting exposure sites. We know we're living with COVID but we're still not sure how it works: the new new new new normal isn't quite normal yet. https://www.instagram.com/msbatterhams/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Melbourne is open and so is my mouth! I catch the train to the city, eat in a restaurant with friends and feel all the feelings. Let's do this - safely, carefully, joyfully - let's satisfy our hunger for experience and connection. Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Let's Melbourne again! Daniel Amato owns Brunswick favourite Lux Foundry. He can't wait to open the cafe again and feel the energy and buzz of the dining floor. Reopening for a sixth time is kind of unbelievable - imagine telling a business owner that two years ago. Even so, he feels prepared and optimistic - and he'd love you to try the new passionfruit panna cotta. https://www.luxfoundry.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

With Melbourne on the verge of reopening for the 6th time, Scott Pickett is feeling the butterflies, wrangling the menus, decoding the ever-changing rules and - more or less, basically, in the end - feeling optimistic about his restaurants and Melbourne generally. Sure, he might have to scoop up staff on incoming flights but he's up for it...Let's do this, Melbourne! https://www.scottpickettgroup.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Ben Blackmore is a sixth generation farmer and the custodian of Blackmore Wagyu, launched by his father David more than 30 years ago. Their wagyu is one of the most respected and adored meat products in the world, a testament to genetics, breeding, feed, animal care and an unending commitment to quality. But what's it like to run a family farm in an arena that's stocked with corporates and in a world that's facing climate change? https://blackmorewagyu.com Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

We head to Canada to talk to cook, author and food commentator Julie Van Rosendaal. Her home town of Calgary, Alberta is open but dining out is restricted and the hospitals are overwhelmed. What can we learn from the Canadian situation as Australia climbs towards high vaccination rates and dining in again? https://www.instagram.com/dinnerwithjulie/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Haikal Raji is one of the three brothers who run Melbourne institution A1 Bakery. Haikal grew up in the shop, learning hospitality and generosity from his father and uncle, and growing slowly into the custodian of a Lebanese legacy that is dear to Brunswick and important to Melbourne. The COVID times have been tough but he doesn't see any way forward but optimism, zaatar manouche in hand. https://a1bakery.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

When your restaurant is all about a sense of place and connection, it's hard to keep the spirit going in lockdown. But Andrea Pagani from Elwood's Figo Pizza has kept his staff engaged, the locals fed, distinguishing Caroline No Anchovies from Caroline Extra Anchovies along the way. He even managed to finish a PhD in literature. Let's talk Pinocchio! Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Sydney is open! We last spoke to Stuart Knox, owner of Fix Wine Bar, on June 24 just as Sydney was going into a two-week lockdown. Fifteen weeks later, that lockdown is ending. Stuart is excited to be reopening though unsure how much city trade there will be. He's also expecting a few tricky moments checking the vaccination status of his customers. https://fixwine.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

For farmer Angela Argyle (Argyle Australian Saffron), location was vital for the success of their foray into saffron. The regional New South Wales town Orange is perfect for Saffron, which demands four distinct seasons to thrive. In just five years Angela and Brendan are not only producing some of the best saffron in the world, but are living proof that belief, grit and determination fosters the most fruitful outcomes. https://www.argyleaustraliansaffron.com.au Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

With Sydney close to reopening we talk to chef Danielle Alvarez about the energy and intention required to welcome guests again and the hope that diners bring their kind hearts to the table. There's also a great scrambled egg story and (from me) a creepy confession. https://www.instagram.com/daniellemariealvarez/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

We head to Blacktown, Sydney to talk to Nila Yousofzai from Afghan Chapli Kebab. Nila is proud and happy to showcase the street food of her birthplace and can't wait to come out of lockdown so more people can eat it. It's been tough in western Sydney but with a brother in Kabul she's able to keep the difficulties of the Australian pandemic experience in perspective. https://www.instagram.com/afghanchaplikebab/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Doug Brooke is owner and brewer at East Bendigo Brewing Company, an independent beer manufacturer in central Victoria. Some producers look for broad distribution networks and national - even international - acclaim and success. Doug prefers to think local: if you live here, or if you visit, he wants you to encounter and enjoy a beer that expresses and honours the region. https://www.ebbrewing.com.au Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Mike Russell expected COVID to visit Baker Bleu, his renowned sourdough bakery in Melbourne. But when a staff member tested positive - followed by half a dozen more - he was frustrated by an absence of guidance from Victoria's health authorities. Navigating the situation has been tough but it's prompted him to institute important changes: bye-bye break room for one.

Shiree Pilkinton founded Ballarat social enterprise cafe A Pot Of Courage because the migrant women in her circle were talented and capable but faced barriers to employment. Founded just before COVID struck, it's been one challenge after another - even so, the perspective and resilience of the Pot family is inspiring and energising. We find Shiree in New Zealand, stuck offshore after the death of her mother but finding solace in the family home and her Maori traditions. https://www.apotofcourage.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

We hear a bit about people with underlying health conditions when discussing COVID. Here's one: Satt Makkad runs Melbourne restaurant 3 Idiots with her husband Pratt. They are struggling with staffing, lockdowns, 'freedom marchers' out the front of the restaurant and the vexed question of the vax. They're also making great Indian food, based on stories and memories. https://www.3idiots.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

For Kim Kiss and her husband Bryan, Grassland Poultry is more than just producing chicken meat. For over 30 years they’ve practised regenerative farming, and in recent years they’ve added their prized Australian Heritage Breed Sommerlad Chickens to the mix – ethically grown, and free to roam – just as nature intended. https://grasslandpoultry.com.au Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Times are tough but there's light at the end of the tunnel and a community to buoy Tammy Brami, owner of Boosa in Melbourne's Bentleigh. The COVID times have reinforced and refined the values of this family cafe. She and husband Eitam have made pandemic pivots that they know they'll retain and they're even launching an adjunct events business. https://www.boosa.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Today we bring you the second episode of the Producers Podcastwith our co-host Anthony Huckstep If one thing defines Jonas Widjaja (@fairgamewildvenison), it's a passionate dislike for waste. After discovering he was unable to donate excess meat after a hunting trip, he realized he could make a difference. With wild deer being culled and left in the field to go to waste in Northern New South Wales, he embarked on a journey to bring wild venison to the plates of diners down under. https://www.fairgame.com.au Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

We head to Denmark to talk to Mette Gassner, owner of Ti Trin Ned, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Fredericia, two hours from Copenhagen. On September 11, the Danish government declared the COVID crisis over: with high vaccination rates (75% of the total population and 84% of everyone 12 and over), restrictions have been completely lifted. Mette is pleased but wary: after so many ups and downs, is this the right time to let go of fear and dive wholeheartedly into renewal? http://www.titrinned.dk/en/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

We head to California for a great chat with winemaker Jason Haas. Tablas Creek Vineyard is the first winery in the world to achieve Regenerative Organic Certification, a farming gold standard that addresses climate change and social inequity. We also talk about the winery's decision to only serve vaccinated diners inside and the pandemic-prompted realisation that they could look after visitors better. https://tablascreek.com Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

Since 1999, Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs have been nurturing, creating and crafting at Sutton Grange Farm on Dja Dja Wurrung Country near Castlemaine in Victoria. The goats they milk to make their revered farmhouse cheese are central to the rhythm of their days. https://www.holygoatcheese.com.au Follow The Producers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/producerspodcast/ Host Dani Valent https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Host Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork

In normal times, LA-based Australian chef Curtis Stone is back and forth between the US and Australia every few weeks. The pandemic has anchored him in LA where he's enjoyed more family time, refashioned his restaurant Gwen as a pie store, and had opportunity to reflect with humility on accepting the things that you can't control. https://www.curtisstone.com Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

The power of the suburbs and the differentiation of brands and business streams have been defining characteristics of the pandemic. We check in with Matt Woodhouse, chef at Comma in Melbourne's south-eastern suburb of Moorabbin. The past 18 months have been super tough but they've also been energising and heartening. And he's sure 2022 is going to be a cracker... https://www.wearecomma.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Melbourne chef Mischa Tropp spent the first year of the pandemic in India, where he was developing a range of curry pastes. After an up and down year, he made it back to Australia in February and he's now launched Elsie's Butter Chicken, focusing on one key dish done very, very well. We talk about the immense variety of Indian food and the passion and culture that drives it and I can't help but share my joyful obsession with uttapam, a south Indian fermented pancake that should be the Australian cafe's next sourdough. https://www.instagram.com/elsieswithlove/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

How does a leader manage her own COVID blahs while motivating and connecting a team? We check in with Hannah Burke, manager of fine dining Cutler & Co restaurant in Melbourne. Hannah shares some of her strategies and life hacks for staying upbeat and maintaining team spirit in lockdown. We also talk about the joys of hospitality and looking after people and her confidence that we'll be back out there soon! https://www.cutlerandco.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

James Sinclair runs Signature Hospitality Group, which has TGI Fridays and Sporting Globe venues around Australia. We talk about why he's optimistic about 2022, his hopes to get outdoor dining kicked off sooner rather than later and his keen desire to see all his staff vaccinated. James has close TGI Fridays connections in the US: the difference in illness and business in under-vaccinated Texas and well-vaccinated New York is plain - and distressing - to see. https://www.sportingglobe.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Epidemiologist Mary-Louise McLaws is a leading scientific and policy voice in the pandemic. We talk about the importance of vaccinating younger Australians who make up such a large portion of the hospitality industry, the community impacts of deciding not to get vaccinated, what rate of vaccination will avoid the need for lockdowns, rapid testing, ventilation and whether it should be a focus, and the burden of compliance on hospitality that may be extended to monitoring vaccination status. It's a privilege to have such an accomplished and respected scientist answer some of the burning pandemic questions in the restaurant world. https://twitter.com/MarylouiseMcla1?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

This is a big juicy chat with hospo lifer Alex Ross, currently living in Benalla and working at town pub and hub The Northo. Alex was a driver of the cocktail revolution in Australia, turning drinkers from vicious vodka and terrible tequila to culinary sipping. We talk about the challenges of being a woman in the bar world, the insecurity of hospo work especially when major illness strikes, and the importance of looking after body and mind in an industry that's tough on both. https://www.instagram.com/makemybed/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

We start the week in conversation with Merica Charungvat, owner of Talay by Thai Tide, a delivery-first Thai seafood restaurant launched during Melbourne's second lockdown. Merica acknowledges that being a business owner is tough and draining at the moment but she's powering on, launching multiple food brands that don't rely on dine-in trade. https://www.talay.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Patissier Audrey Allard was working at Lune Croissant when the pandemic hit. Amidst much uncertainty she launched her micro cake box business Holy Sugar and has turned it into a sweet success. We talk about the art and science of pastry, the heavy burden of trying to please people and the importance of showing and sharing emotion even - and perhaps especially - in the hothouse environment of a kitchen. https://www.instagram.com/holysugar__/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Dirty Linen travels to Israel to talk to Tel Aviv deli owner Yanai Erez. Yanai makes 60 dishes fresh each day at The Lux Deli. With high vaccination rates, Israel is open despite thousands of new cases a day. We talk vaccine passports, living in the moment and optimism. Is Israel a beacon for a rather locked down Australia? https://www.instagram.com/thelux_deli/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Nature. Exercise. They're the key ingredients for staying upbeat in lockdown for chef Elijah Holland of South Melbourne's Lume. We talk about wild food in China, foraging for Noma and the importance of staying healthy during the uncertainty of lockdown. If you're not energised after this chat, I'll be surprised! https://www.restaurantlume.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

We start the week in Shepparton which is throwing all its resources at a Delta outbreak. Graeme Murphy's Thai Orchid was an exposure site last year. This year he's using everything he learnt to keep building community, stay safe and feed a struggling Shepp. Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

We head to Canberra to talk to magazine editor Katarina Kroslakova, who is powering along with new print publication T Australia - food is a big focus there. Katarina is also helping her restaurateur partner Pasquale Trimboli with marketing, packaging and pandemic pivoting at his Canberra restaurant Italian & Sons. We talk food media, the resilience of print publications and the place of anonymity in restaurant criticism these days. https://taustralia.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

We talk to Dom Wilton, owner of Hector's Deli, a Richmond sandwich place that is so popular they are completely (temporarily) changing the menu to stop people gathering outside the shop. We talk about the overlaps between fine dining and accessible food like toasties and burgers and why Dom thinks this is a great time to be optimistic and charged up about Australian dining. https://www.hectorsdeli.com.au Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

We're going to Ireland! JP McMahon owns three restaurants in Galway - one of them Michelin-starred Aniar - and runs culinary talkfest Food on the Edge. We talk about how reopening is going in Ireland, vaccine passports for indoor dining and what it might mean to create an indigenous Irish cuisine. https://www.instagram.com/mistereatgalway/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Esca Khoo has just started his first head chef job at Melbourne's Miss Mi but it's hard to build momentum in lockdown. We talk about growing up in Borneo, the joys of fermented durian, his initial ambition to be a soccer player (hello Gordon Ramsay!) and work stints at Noma Australia and Dinner by Heston. Esca's career to date has been as much about working out what kind of leader he doesn't want to be as finding his identity as a person and a chef along the way. https://www.instagram.com/foodtureproof/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Debra Allard is a cheesemaker near Byron Bay, making small-batch cheese from her own Jersey cows' milk. Her Cheeses Loves You business went gangbusters at the start of the pandemic when imports slowed down but there have been tricky periods since then. We get mad about anti-maskers who jeopardise the farmers' markets that are her main source of income, ponder closed borders, and rhapsodise about cheese glorious cheese! https://www.instagram.com/debra_allard_cheesie/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

Chris Lerch is co-owner of Lagoon Dining in Carlton, a modern Asian restaurant which opened in late 2019. Despite the difficulties of the pandemic, Lagoon has developed a strong Melbourne following and a considered identity, adapting pillars of fine dining for a more casual experience. https://www.lagoondining.com Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

As Melbourne digests news of Lockdown 6 Extension 2, we chat to experienced hospitality consultant and restaurateur Duncan Fraser-Smith. Duncan planned Vesper in South Yarra while he was in hotel quarantine back in lockdown #1 after wrapping up a long period living in Dubai. Despite the uncertainty and frustration of opening and closing over and again, he's managing to stay upbeat, connected, strategic and hopeful. This WILL end one day... https://www.instagram.com/vesperbistrobar/ Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/

We start the week with a trip to Europe to visit Aussie expat chef Lee Thompson. Lee's gastropub St Bart is in a cool part of Berlin - we talk about the highs, lows and other lows of the pandemic and the intricacies of understanding life and business in Germany. Bring on the bacon sandwich! https://www.instagram.com/st.bart.pub/?hl=en Follow Dirty Linen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dirtylinenpodcast Follow Dani https://www.instagram.com/danivalent Follow Deep In The Weeds on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepintheweedspodcast/ Follow Rob Locke (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Follow Huck (Executive Producer) https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/